Bidets in the U.S.A. vs. The World
There is no doubt that bidet toilets have become increasingly popular in the last year. In the United States more and more people are looking to alternatives to traditional toilets and toilet paper. However, the majority of bathrooms in the U.S., including those in the fanciest hotels, often lack a bidet toilet. When there is a porcelain toilet-side wash station installed in a U.S. bathroom, it is often an unexpected extra.
What remains to be explained is why the trend has never quite taken up in the US until now.
What remains to be explained is why the trend has never quite taken up in the US until now. Some find an explanation in America’s own renowned modesty, which would bring people to squirm at the idea of touching their genitals without the shield of a piece of toilet paper. This is silly, and the vast majority of the modern world certainly does not “go about their business” the same way that Americans do. In fact, they find Americans to be primitive in the way we approach relieving ourselves.
The bidet is designed to promote personal hygiene, and is used after defecation, and before and after sexual intercourse. In several European countries, a bidet is today required by law to be present in every bathroom containing a toilet bowl. It was originally located in the bedroom, near the chamber-pot and the marital bed, but in modern times is located near the toilet bowl in the bathroom. Fixtures that combine a toilet seat with a washing facility include the electronic bidet.
Bidets are not yet required by law here in the States, but with their increased popularity, don’t be surprised if you see them more and more frequently. Just as they are a common bathroom staple in Europe, they likely will be here soon too.
